Jade’s Journey to a New Life
From Struggle to Strength – Jade’s Journey to a New Life
At just 23, Jade is stepping into a new life – one built not on her past, but on the strength, courage, and determination she’s shown to rise above it.
Born into a world of chaos, at the age of five, she was introduced to cannabis by her older siblings. By 11, she was using methamphetamines and already entangled with the justice system. Her young life was shaped by instability, trauma, and addiction – patterns deeply rooted in her family and environment.
Despite multiple attempts to break free, Jade’s journey through rehabilitation was often short-lived. She would begin programs but leave after only a few weeks, unable to maintain the consistency and support needed to build a different life.
That began to change in August 2023, when Jade was referred to the Tidda program, supported by the Sisters of Saint John of God and delivered in partnership with Outcare. Coming off the back of her involvement with the Start Court program, Jade was also nearing the end of her Intensive Supervision Order with the Department of Justice. Her history was long, her challenges significant – but so too was her willingness to try again.
Jade experienced setbacks, including a relapse in late 2024 that led to a breach of her order conditions. But instead of giving up, she faced the consequences, returned to court with her Tidda Case Manager by her side, and kept moving forward.
Then in April 2024, she made a life-changing decision: to give rehabilitation another chance. This time, she stayed. She completed the full program at Palmerston Residential Rehabilitation and graduated in July 2024 – equipped not just with the tools to manage her recovery, but with a renewed sense of self-belief.
Through the Tidda program, Jade also received access to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), securing more than $10,000 initially to complete a Functional Capacity Assessment. This opened the door for a reviewed plan, which was approved in April 2025, providing Jade with over $106,000 in NDIS support. For the first time, she had the resources to help with everyday living tasks, medical appointments, and community access – critical supports that would allow her to live independently and confidently.
Jade officially completed the Tidda program in May 2025. Her journey was far from linear -but it was filled with determination, honesty, and a growing belief that her life could be different.
Fairlie Hawke, Team Leader of the Tidda Program, reflected:
“Jade’s story is one of incredible perseverance. What she’s overcome is nothing short of inspiring. She’s shown that with the right support and the courage to keep going, real change is possible. We’re so proud of her and honoured to have walked alongside her during this part of her journey.”
Today, Jade is no longer defined by her past, but by her future. She is living proof of what’s possible when the right support meets the right moment.
About Tidda
The Tidda program supports women with undiagnosed or unsupported disabilities to successfully reintegrate into the community. Funded by the Sisters of Saint John of God, Tidda helps women access the assessments, services, and supports they need—creating a pathway toward independence, healing, and a brighter future.
Jade’s story is just one of many. But it reminds us all that transformation is possible – and that at Outcare, we’re here to walk beside people every step of the way.